Carolina Panthers 53-man roster predictions following 2022 NFL Draft

Carolina Panthers OL

• Ikem Ekwonu, Brady Christensen, Bradley Bozeman, Austin Corbett, Taylor Moton, Pat Elflein, Cameron Erving, Deonte Brown, Cade Mays.

After yet another dismal effort across the offensive line in 2021, a makeover of epic proportions was priority No. 1  for the Carolina Panthers this offseason. One almost lost count at the number of times the protection crumbled in key moments, with the complete lack of accountability and inefficiency to pick up even the simplest stunts proving to be their downfall throughout the campaign.

Thankfully, this was also recognized by the front office. Carolina acquired Bradley Bozeman and Austin Corbett in free agency – two solid contributors who represent significant upgrades on the interior.

The Panthers also got themselves a stud left tackle in the form of Ikem Ekwonu at No. 6 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. It was a huge surprise to see the North Carolina State product fall out of the top five, which was music to Carolina’s ears given the troubles they’ve experienced on the blindside since Jordan Gross retired.

This will likely relegate some of last year’s starters to backup positions, which is another positive. The Panthers should also begin transitioning Brady Christensen to a permanent left guard alongside Ekwonu, which has the scope to completely transform their fortunes in this area of the field.